The Tigray regional government in Ethiopia has sought federal intervention after a TPLF faction seized control of significant towns, raising fears of renewed civil conflict. The TPLF, which faced internal strife and fractured leadership, previously engaged in a devastating war against federal forces. The situation is dire, with calls for international oversight and a reaffirmation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
The interim government of Ethiopia’s Tigray region urgently requested federal intervention after a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) captured two significant towns. This alarming development has resulted in injuries and stoked fears of a potential civil war resurgence. On Tuesday, the TPLF faction took control of Adigrat, the region’s second-largest town, and subsequently named a new administrator. The following evening, they seized Adi-Gudem, where clashes led to injuries when government buildings were targeted.
The TPLF previously engaged in a devastating two-year conflict with federal forces, concluding in November 2022 with a peace agreement that established a TPLF-led interim government. This conflict resulted in substantial casualties, with estimates indicating hundreds of thousands killed and millions displaced, many of whom faced severe famine conditions.
In recent months, the TPLF has experienced internal fractures. In October, leader Debretsion Gebremichael expelled interim government head Getachew Reda from the party alongside four cabinet members. In response, Reda temporarily removed four senior military officers he suspected of allegiance to Gebremichael.
The Tigray Communication Affairs Bureau, representing the interim government, issued a statement warning that the region might be on the verge of another crisis. Reda characterized the TPLF’s actions as indicative of a “potential coup attempt.” He stressed the importance of international vigilance, urging the parties involved in the Pretoria Peace Agreement to comprehend the deteriorating circumstances in Tigray.
Conversely, TPLF deputy chairman Amanuel Assefa asserted that the ongoing strife is unconnected to the Pretoria agreement and stems from law enforcement matters. He reiterated that the TPLF and Tigray forces are legitimate stakeholders of the agreement, dismissing any justification for actions that would violate its terms.
In light of the recent developments in Tigray, the situation remains precarious as factional disputes within the TPLF threaten to destabilize the region once more. The interim government’s plea for federal intervention underscores the urgency for external monitoring and support to maintain peace. The complex dynamics highlight the necessity for dialogue and cooperation among all parties involved, especially concerning the Pretoria Peace Agreement’s future viability.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
